Monarch Donuts in Arcadia is more than just a donut spot, you can feel it right away. Yeah the donuts are really good, especially the apple fritters, but it's not even just about that. It's the way they treat people. You can tell there's real heart behind it. The owner is super genuine and you can see how much he cares, not just about the food but about people. That kind of energy sticks with you. It's a small place, early hours, and they sell out fast, but it makes sense. Everything is fresh and made with intention. Honestly it just feels different coming here. It's one of those spots that reminds you it's not always about the food, it's about how people make you feel too. read more

See all

I have to preface that I'm not a donut person. That's because I don't like the taste of grease usually associated with donuts. A friend of mine raved about this place so I stopped by to check it out on my way to the 1st tee at Santa Anita golf course. Unfortunately, the donuts here are no exception to the greasy taste. The donuts are quite soft and fluffy. So soft that I'd almost say they lack the requisite texture. The famed apple fritter actually fell apart as I tried to pick it up. It was also the greasiest of the donuts I tried. It literally felt like the oil was oozing as I chewed the donut. The raisin croissant/danish had a decent texture; but, it had sort of cheesy note to it which was unexpected. I also must mention that the prices are quite reasonable and the portions were generous. read more

Monarch Donuts - Apple fritter. It fell apart as I tried to pick it up. - Donuts Near Me - Arcadia, California

See all

Jet lag has its benefits. I've been getting up before 5am and decided to hit up Monarch. They open at 5am and usually sells out in a few hours. I wanted to try their apple fritter many people in my area are talking about. I've never been a fan of it but this is really good. It has a slight crisp outer crust, lighter airy inside with a nice glaze. Also got a maple crumb donut. It's larger than other places, covered with crumbs for texture. Both were fresh and perfect with coffee. I usually don't eat the whole thing, but finished both of these in one sitting. The owner is great and super friendly. We engaged in a chat and I could've talked to him much longer except there was another customer waiting in the pre-dawn cold, so I excused myself. When I got there at 5:30, there were already people leaving with boxes, so I'm not sure what I missed. If you're up early and nearby, go get some! read more

See all

Shout out to Jonathan!! What a pleasure to deal with such a nice human being. I was able to secure some of the yummy apple fritters, donut holes and old fashioned. The apple fritter was bouncy, airy and had chunks of apples inside. You don't feel bad for eating the whole thing but it is big so you can save some for later. The donut holes were so good even a day after being bought. Just amazing of how it holds the texture and glaze so well. Old fashion was moist and not dense but still has the vibe of a cake like donut. He is only open from 5-9am and usually sells out. I will sure be back! read more

Monarch Donuts - Apple fritter - Donuts Near Me - Arcadia, California

By far, one of the best donut shops I've ever visited! The rolls and donuts are suburb and the owner is a phenomenal human being; His daily blessings are boundless. So appreciate his gratitude. read more

My bf and I ran here. The owner hooked us up with cold waters which were very appreciated. The price was reasonable and I remembered to bring cash! Apple fritter bf review 9.1/10 - "texture is soft and fluffy. The dough itself is quite moist but not wet. There is cinnamon throughout and the glaze adds a sweetness. The Apple is cooked perfectly. And it's a great Apple fritter. It certainly is delicious" My review 8.2/10 - I dont like cooked fruit or most donuts. But I loved it. I appreciate how non-greasy it is and how non-oily it tastes. It's not overly sweet like other donuts I've had. The Apple is pleasant and the way the fritter is made is pretty cool. It's like clumps of dough and not one dough piece like a normal donut. I also enjoy how the dough is not crazy dense for a fritter and it's fluffy and cooked throughout. Cinnamon crumb donut Bf review 7.3/10 - "if you love cinnamon and sugar, this is the donut for you. Light, fluffy, with many layers in between. This donut will make your morning" My review 6/10 - very fluffy dough. It has a cooling effect on my tongue (stevia). I taste a little more oil. Donut holes Bf review 7.8/10 - "delicious. Glaze is sweet but not overly sweet. It's fluffy, spongey texture. It's quite good." My review 7.8/10 - "very light dough. The glaze is not covering the hole but Im into it!" read more

Monarch Donuts - Cinnamon crumb donut - Donuts Near Me - Arcadia, California

See all

I always notice this shop when I drove by, but it was always closed. I was being curious, and found out that this donut shop only opens a few hours a day. Out of curiosity I stopped by around 6am, and there were 4 people (including myself) getting donuts. The owner was very friendly, and he asked what brought me here. I told him that I was curious about the donut, and his hours interested me. A lady behind me recommended me to try their apple fritter, and I got it. The owner shared the story about this donut shop with me briefly, and it is a very touching story. He is very personable to his customer. Owner suggested that I can message him if I would like to order donuts for future. I have never been to a donut shop that provides this kind of service. The Apple fritter is very fresh, soft, not overly sweet, and tasty! It will be perfect to pair with coffee. The owner gave me a printout about this donut shop. I will continue to support. Street parking is available. read more

See all

If you love donuts, you have to give this place a try. The apple fritters are a must! I prefer the apple fritters here because it's soft and not overly sweet. The owner is super friendly and truly does his best to get to know his customers. While waiting for the donuts, he asked what brought me in and we talked for a bit and he even shared his story about the donut shop. Will definitely continue to support this business. Just fyi: This place is only open from 5 - 9 am and there is street parking. read more

Monarch Donuts - Donuts Near Me - Arcadia, California

I came here before work to pick up an apple fritter because I saw that people on TikTok were raving about it. At 7 AM the case was almost fully empty with a couple exceptions. The worker in the front was extremely friendly and made my morning. The dough was delicate, heavily spiced with cinnamon, fluffy, and crispy while not being soaked in grease. the thin coating of icing was perfff!! This fritter would've been 10/10 if it wasn't lacking in apples. read more

Monarch Donuts - what's left at 7 am - Donuts Near Me - Arcadia, California

See all

​Monarch Donuts is a classic donut shop that has rightfully earned its reputation for quality and friendly service. ​The donuts here are exceptional, particularly the fresh apple fritters and the consistently soft donuts. The rave reviews I receive from my coworkers every time I bring them in are a reliable testament to their excellence. This is a local gem.. critical note for prospective visitors: you must arrive early. Their fantastic selection frequently sells out by 8-9 am. read more

Anyone who's been fortunate enough to snag one of these delicious donuts made with pure love knows. But for those who came here just to complain that they missed out on these wildly popular donuts, I say, try again. The owner not only takes orders ahead of time, handling all his own accounts and messages, but those who know arrive early. If you don't want to get up early for these donuts, there are tons of larger shops nearby. But none of them have these donuts or this owner. He's kind to all and cares about his customers. He's been fighting for years to keep his little business going and the community who loves him continues to show up to support him. He's generous - often handing out free donuts to those in need or just to lift some one's spirits. And these donuts are absolutely top shelf. (If you don't like donuts or grease, I'm not sure why'd you'd come to a donut place and then review it). Though I'm partial to his special apple fritters, he's an artist and there's always a revolving door of new flavors. And! He can make letter and number donuts for a perfectly customized event. To all who love donuts and kindness, Monarch remains our local golden standard. read more

May sound cheesy but I may have met an angel in Jonathan today. Thank you for sharing your story and somehow knowing mine.... I left changed. Donuts were pretty good, too :) God bless you and your business! read more

Get the apple fritters! Get the apple fritters! Get the apple fritters! The fluffy soft and almost caramelized taste is to die for and I would pre order. They sell out fast. I was introduced to this place my another mom and she told me to preorder and I agree. That way you can make sure you get your hands on some. read more

Monarch Donuts - Donuts Near Me - Arcadia, California

I was working in Azusa and bought two dozen donuts for the team. They raved that these are by far the best donuts they have ever had. Exceptional doesn't do it justice. Chef's kiss to their donuts!! read more

Rating strictly on the donut holes Hands down the best donut holes I've had. You can tell that it's from raised dough and it made with extra glaze. Worth trying the other donuts. read more

See all

I'm not a donut connoisseur. But for somebody who has lived within Los Angeles and California for a while, I've been able to try a bunch of different types of upscale niche donut shops. It's really cool to see how we have smaller joints like this with hours between 5 to 9 or 10, because they sell out so soon, compared to some goofy corporate Instagram bowl donut shop you would see at like Universal Studios. I got the apple fritter and the maple crumble. The key distinction with both of these donuts I would say is the quality of the dough. I think the best example would be the crumble I had. When you bite into it, it's not like biting into this really airy shell that you would normally expect from a standard pink box. Your coworker brings to an office meeting. What you're getting is almost a bread-y sponge like texture, that isn't too thick, but thick enough to distinguish itself from the other donuts you've had before. It's almost like biting into a light handheld cake. The apple fritter was really good, it wasn't too frosted up top so it was a little bit more concentrated on the dough, but you could still taste the icing and apple. The maple crumble was also pretty dang good. Just do you know that you're going to have to like Maple to eat this one because it might be seen as too sugar for some people. The owner was super nice and he chatted with me over the phone in person, they have great service. read more

See all

So... my first visit was great from my previous review but this time I didn't and should've pre order before heading here. The person in front of me took forever chatting w the owner and grabbing all the donuts which leaves me seeing 1 apple fritter available only! The apple fritters weren't as good from the first time having them. This time it was doughy and wasn't fried enough. It didn't taste fresh like before... :( read more

Monarch Donuts - Apple Fritters - Donuts Near Me - Arcadia, California

See all

Time for an update since there seem to be a bunch of whiners who don't understand that this is a small 1-man donut shop that makes delicious donuts and fritters, so YEAH he WILL sell out early. He sells out when he sells out. If you don't want to make the effort to wake up earlier, then that just leaves more for those of us who do. If you follow Jonathan on instagram you'll see that he actually takes preorders and doesn't even charge you until you pick it up. All you have to do is message him and he will take care of you. Yes, sometimes he can be long winded with customers, but when it's your turn, he will always make you feel like family. I truly hope he is able to land somewhere close by, Jonathan is truly a gem in this city and is a constant ray of read more

As a faith-based business occupying what was once home to a tailor Monarch Donuts is another example of "do not judge a book by its cover," owner Johnathan Ung's tiny space working on three key principles and greeting guests from 5am until selling out daily. "Do your best, be kind and love your mother" recited to a woman in line, a seemingly simple list to most, Monarch's flavors eschew fancy in favor of old-fashioned excellence whether one selects a soft cake cogwheel or a yeasted ring topped by glaze and crunchy Streusel. Low priced in comparison to LA artisans, though certainly not lacking for quality when biting into the Chocolate and Maple mix atop soft fried Dough, early arrival will be necessary to snag an Apple Fritter loaded with Fruit amidst a pillowy matrix beneath Cinnamon Glaze. read more

See all

I hate to sound cliche but they really do have the best apple fritters in the area. They are pure soft, crumbly, apple, sweet goodness. It's recommended to call ahead to guarantee your fritter as they sell out quickly. read more

Monarch Donuts - Apple Fritter - Donuts Near Me - Arcadia, California

I have driven past this place numerous times and always wondered why they're always closed. Did some Yelp searches and realized they're open only for a few hours a day, so I made it a mission to find my off day and make it back for a visit! Came on a Saturday 6am, it was a cold breezy morning, but you can smell the fresh donuts the minute you walk up for the window. Upon walking to the window, I was met with Johnathon, the dedicated and proud owner of the place. He told me about his history and ended up chatting for an hour! I love apple fritters so obviously ordered one, and saw on Yelp the strawberry shortcake, which wasn't displayed, but he was kind to go out of the way to make one for me!! All the donuts were light and fluffy and you can feel his love for his craft through his food. read more

See all

You better come out in your pajamas and get here early because by eight by the time I arrived, most of the stuff has been sold out. If you want the apple fritter, you definitely have to come very early. I wanted to get the apple fritter and they were all gone. However, the owner told me that he set aside a for those who call or text ahead of time. I was just chitchatting with him and talking to him while he was making my coffee and he told me he had a little stash set away for new customers who were kind. I want to tell you that his coffee is pretty good. I don't really think that coffee from donut shops are anything super special however, this coffee was strong and it hit the spot. I don't add anything else to my coffee. I just drink it black and I appreciate it a standard cup of coffee that has no frills. The apple fritter itself was so good. I see why he sells out immediately. This guy's customer service is incredible and he is so nice. I have never had any kind of customer service like that in my life. If you are somebody that's in a rush this isn't the place for you because he likes to talk to his customers and he for sure has a rapport with many of them. I hope that he is successful until he retires and I love that he has his grandmother with him watching him as he spreads joy and tasty treats. read more

This guy is an Angel in disguised. Not only are the donuts the best I ever tasted but the short conversations with Jonathan are inspiring and graceful. Keep up the good work bro. Your views on life are on point !! read more

I didn't realize the hours (5-9am) and we got there at 903am. We were staying at the hotel down the street and were so excited to try their apple fritter! We were in our car looking up another donut shop, when the owner, Jonathan, came out and asked if we needed something. We let him know we were here to try his apple fritters and to buy a dz donuts for a client. HE WAS SOOO COOL and said wait right here. He came back w the donuts we requested-- and an extra box of his most popular for us! We really got to know him, his story and his purpose. Not only are his donuts delicious, they are made w love! What a special person. We felt blessed that it was meant to be for us to meet him and eat his donuts. Thank you!! read more

Monarch Donuts - Apple fritter - Donuts Near Me - Arcadia, California

See all

The donut and the apple fritters are delicious. My daughter finished the donut by herself. And i finished the fritter, not too sweet, and great with black coffee. Jonathan is a really nice guy. I will coming back to LA read more

Haven't been ate donuts for a long time.... Pretty sweet for me but good for family youngsters breakfast!!! Nothing cheap nowadays but Monarch has a very good quality of donuts each day... read more

Monarch Donuts - Donuts Near Me - Arcadia, California

I met Jonathan for the 1st the other morning. I was returning from dropping off my cat at the vets. When I came to the window he thought I was someone else. I told him that this was my first time there. We talked about cats. I ordered the croissant and raisin roll. I didn't see the cash only. I proceeded to hand over my credit card. He told me cash only. I asked him if he could hold my order and I would go to the atm. He said no to just take it. I told him I would be right back. I went to the atm. He was closed. I knocked on the window and he peeked. I wave my money. He came out and refused to take the money. I asked again and he reassured me no. It was a kind gesture that I will never forget. I will always make sure I have cash. Anything on the menu is delicious. I have gone back. read more

Monarch Donuts - Apple Fritter - Donuts Near Me - Arcadia, California

This place is a Gem! Jonathon the owner is an amazing person. Plus... he makes the best donuts in the Valley! Please go support the business. Cash or Zelle only. read more

I heard this place is finally closing and it's about time. The owner actually screenshotted me review in 2022 to get people to attack me until it was removed. The guy isn't nice. Glad he's "retiring". read more

Best donuts in town but you have to get there before he sells out which is usually before 8am. My son goes to see Mr Johnathan every Wednesday morning who is a ray of sunshine. Highly recommend! read more

These apple fritters are amazing!!! I called and spoke to Johnathan (Super friendly) 30 min prior to closing, praying that he would have some apple fritters left and he was nice enought to save me 3 till I arrived. I also got the crumb doughtnut (crumb crust outstanding) and a chocolate glaze, these doughnuts are something really special. You can tell they're made with quality ingredients and love and not greasy at all. I can't wait to go back. Thank you Johnathan!!! read more

Years ago, I saw Monarch Donuts written up for the Best Apple Fritters in the Los Angeles Times & found out the owner (Nice Man) won the nomination two years in a row! So, I had to try it & Yes! The apple fritters did not disappoint! They are the best plus the soft doughiness of the other donuts like the maple bar! Get there early in the morning because the man sells out quick! This how doughnuts are supposed to made! read more

Monarch donuts is a hidden gem in Arcadia. I had to go there very early to try the apple fritters. I was lucky this time because I finally get some delicious donuts. But first, we met with Jonathan. Jonathan is a very humble sweet young man who is very enthusiastic about his business and his customers too. He is also very loyal to his family. He shared with us many lovely stories about his grandmother and his beautiful mommy. I bought one of each top donuts, the famous apple fritters and fresh donut holes. Honestly, this is the BEST donuts I have ever tried.The Apple Fritter is really beyond any description.My goodness!! It is the BEST I have ever tried. If you are looking for excellent customer service, outstanding donughts, great price, just wake up early and I mean very early because he runs out of donught sometimes before 9 o'clock, and go get Monarch donuts. Thank you Jonathan for the inspiring words and for your delicious donuts. I will wake up early and drive to your shop very frequently from now on read more

See all

The best donuts I've ever had! Jonathan is so welcoming and made my experience very enjoyable. I will definitely return!!

Jonathan is the friendliest store owner in LA and Maui (because I only can compare to these 2 places). He greeted me with Good morning sunshine and a big sincere smile. I had apple fritters and cinnamon donut and seriously their texture is almost like randy's donuts but monarch donuts is so much sweeter and too much sugar glaze for me. Next time I want to buy, I will request for lower sugar glaze. The size of the donut is huge! For the apple fritters, seriously it is the best one I have had in my life. The apple crumble is just enough and the crispiness is addictive. The sweetness is just nice. For 2 donuts, I spent $5. He only accepts cash. I hope he has price list. I came around 7 am and it is almost finished. I am glad that I still got apple fritter. www.serenescreen.com read more

Awesome place Jonathan is the best the doughnuts are amazing watch out Dunkin' doughnuts read more

Monarch Donuts - Doughnuts - Donuts Near Me - Arcadia, California

Best, freshest donuts you'll ever have. But you have to come early! Lived in Arcadia for six years before finally I was up early enough and had the time to stop by. Wish they were open until 10 on Saturdays else I'd be there right now! read more

Donuts are amazing here, made out of love and compassion! Jonathan was so kind enough to take my last minute order for a custom I 'HEART' U donut box and a few of his specialties! That includes: Apple Fritter, Strawberry Shortcake and Cinnamon Crumbs. All of these were unique in their own ways but they were all soft, crispy and lightly sweetened to enhance the taste. Thank you Jonathan! I can't wait to come back and try the others. Note: Hours are 5-9 AM and cash only! Bring your bills. read more

Monarch Donuts - Donuts Near Me - Arcadia, California

See all

Best donuts in San Gabriel Valley. Known for the best apple fritters! Very amazing experience from start to finish. From the presentation at the window, from the display of donuts in the storefront. From the experience with the owner Jonathan and his grandmothers and mother's story is TRULY a special and one of a kind experience. Hands down the best donuts. Fluffy, perfectly sweet, light and airy. He will be sold out by 8:15am every single day. Head to the shop early to get your dozen donuts before work or school. I enjoy the glazed and cinnamon crumble the most. God Bless this business and all the people who will be in the path to visiting. 10/10 highly recommend Monarch Donuts. Thank you God, Jonathan, Grandma and beautiful mom. read more

Monarch Donuts - Monarch Donuts beautiful storefront - Donuts Near Me - Arcadia, California

See all

The fritter. Enough said. Get the fritter. They want more characters. So just get the fritter.